Sustainability Update

Did You Know?

Halloween is most often considered the holiday to celebrate in October, but it may be surprising to learn there is another reason to celebrate this month too.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013 marks the 11th Annual Campus Sustainability Day (CSD). This national celebration is a time to recognize the accomplishments, challenges, and advancements of sustainability in higher education.

CSD has come a long way since its inception in 2002. From 2003-2010, the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) led an anchor webcast each year to inspire discussions and analyze the campus sustainability movement. In 2011, a website was created for sharing events and conversations around CSD, hosted by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). Through the website, communication has been expanded and participation has been broadened within the higher education community.

Last year’s CSD was themed “Preparing Students for a Changing Climate” and was the largest celebration to date. More than 150 institutions held their own events with photo contests, film screenings, tree plantings, information fairs, campus cleanups, and sustainability pledges. In addition to the many individual celebrations, the CSD website hosted a keynote broadcast and four regional conversations which included 300 campuses from 47 states and 13 countries around the world.

Santa Clara University has been celebrating CSD since 2006. Each year, this day has been key in sharing our achievements in becoming a more sustainable university as well as educating the campus community about ways to lead a sustainable life. Notable past events include organic gardening workshops, used book sale, worm bin composting 101, and panel discussions. This year, the theme for CSD is “Climate Adaption: Resilient Campuses & Communities.” Join us on Alameda Lawn, between the Learning Commons and Benson, from 11:00am to 1:30pm to learn about sustainable initiatives on campus, clubs to get involved with, and how you can be a true, sustainable Bronco! Email sustainability@scu.edu if you'd like to be involved!